What happens to your smart home devices when the company vanishes? What you need to know
Can your smart home survive if its maker disappears? Here’s what you need to know and some top tips.
Smart homes are gaining popularity, with apps and AI integrated into various aspects of home life. However, the convenience of smart devices can be compromised when the company behind them decides to discontinue their services. Neato Robotics, for instance, stopped operating its robot vacuum in 2023, leaving owners without app controls after Vorwerk, its parent company, phased out cloud services in 2025.
This issue is not unique to Neato; many smart devices rely on cloud services provided by manufacturers or third-party providers. When these services are discontinued, the gadgets may no longer function as intended.
Belkin, a leading smart home accessory maker, recently discontinued cloud services for its WeMo products, affecting smart plugs and other household gadgets. While some devices could still operate locally using Apple's HomeKit, many smart home gadgets depend on internet connectivity and manufacturer servers. This vulnerability becomes more apparent as more devices come with apps or cloud features.
To avoid gadgets with a hidden expiration date, it's crucial to research a manufacturer's support policies and commitments before purchasing. Choose devices that offer local control and Matter compatibility, as these are less vulnerable to manufacturers cutting off cloud services. By considering these factors, you can ensure that your smart home remains functional even if the manufacturer's cloud services disappear.
Written by urgent.news from Tom's Guide's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
